By
Laura Hyde |
Celebrity Cruises has named sisters Captain Sandy Yawn and Michelle Dunham as godmothers for the upcoming cruise ship Celebrity Ascent. Both sisters will bless and christen the ship at an official naming ceremony, scheduled for 1 December 2023.
Yawn is best known for her appearance on Bravo TV’s Below Deck, while Dunham is the founder of the Jacksonville School for Autism in Florida. The sisters join Dimitrios and Tasos Kafetzis, two brothers who will jointly take helm of the new vessel when it launches in December 2023 (a first for the industry).
“As I embark on this remarkable journey as a co-godmother of the Celebrity Ascent, I am deeply honoured to represent not only the spirit of leadership but also the strength of women empowerment,” said Yawn. “I am so honoured that my sister and I can share this distinction. She has always been my biggest inspiration in her selfless pursuit to help my nephew and other families impacted by autism.”
Celebrity Ascent is currently under construction at Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France. Its inaugural season will be spent alternating seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries from Fort Lauderdale’s Port Everglades.
“It fills my heart with immense pride to stand as co-godmother of the Celebrity Ascent, alongside my sister, Captain Sandy Yawn,” said Dunham. “Together, we aspire to elevate lives, create boundless possibilities, and set sail towards a brighter, more inclusive future for all who grace our path through the charities we founded, Jacksonville School for Autism and Captain Sandy’s Charities.”
Laura Hodges Bethge, president of Celebrity, said: “We are honoured to have Captain Sandy and her sister Michelle join the legacy of Celebrity’s godmothers, as they are both inspirational women who have dedicated their lives to making a positive impact in the world. Captain Sandy’s life story is one of resilience, leadership and strength, as a pioneer in the maritime industry and as an inspirational role model for young women. Her sister Michelle is a tireless advocate for children with autism and shows us what is possible when you follow your vision for a better world. Both women live by Celebrity’s values, and we have no doubt they are the perfect choices for Ascent.”